Florida car accident lawyers handle cases that are similar to those in other states with two major exceptions. First, because Florida is a winter resort to which snowbirds flock every winter, the population bulges seasonally as do the number of cars. Second, Florida is a popular retirement destination and thus home to an elderly population whose ability to drive could be questionable and even dangerous.
To simplify the legal quagmire, Florida has adopted the no-fault provision for non-economic injury, primarily addressing any physical damage to the automobile. At this stage, it’s a simple job for the insurance companies. What turns a no-fault accident into a lawsuit is the potential pain, suffering, injury and death that may accompany non-economic damages. Now enters the Florida auto accident lawyer.
At this point, the lawyer would need to focus on the economic side of the law which addresses potential loss of income, medical or funeral costs, and damage to personal property. If there is enough cause for assessing damages, the court would proceed with the case and decide the dollar award to the wronged party. Like other states, Florida car accident laws subscribe to the notion of the “Collateral Source Rule,” which means that a percentage of blame can be assessed between the two parties, dividing the damages accordingly.
To find the right car accident lawyer, Florida attorney Brian Labovick, suggests that credentials matter. Not only are the years in practice important but those years should have focused on auto accident law. Furthermore, belonging to professional associations like the Florida Justice Association (FJA) and the American Association for Justice (AAJ) only adds credibility to a lawyer’s experience in the field.
Whether or not a law suit ever happens, it’s important to remember that Florida has a four-year statute of limitations on filing. It’s also wise to consider that beyond the required insurance, additions like Medical Payments Coverage, Collision Coverage, and Comprehensive Coverage make sense in Florida. After all, one never knows when Grandma and the snowbirds will hit the road.
